Charismatic comedian Luděk Sobota made an indelible mark in the history of not only Czechoslovak film. A man who remains a symbol of humor to this day, but struggles with adversity in his old age. News about his current life and health caused a wave of consternation among viewers.
He was born in 1943 in Prague. Although he first graduated from a transport industrial school, his steps subsequently led to acting. Already while studying at DAMU, he was close to humor and comic roles. Despite his reluctance, he had to show the professors that he could also play dramatic characters. Already at that time, according to his words, he was suffering from psychological problems, which were to result in depression.
A comedian in front of the camera, actually an actor on the verge of burnout
In addition to dozens of television and film roles, he also worked in the theater. His work on boards that mean the world began in Kladivadl, from where he continued to Studio Ypsilon. For many years he was a member of the Semafor Theater troupe, where he was mainly associated with Miloslav Šimek and Petr Nárožný.
Viewers associate it with smiles, jokes and grotesque situations. But the actor himself has let it be known that he suffered from depression in the past. He was significantly affected by the heavy workload. For many years he went from role to role. He even collapsed several times due to mental strain. No wonder. Few could withstand such a murderous pace. He also played dozens of theater performances every month. In addition, he shot not only films, but also entertaining TV shows.
These were usually humorous roles that had a lot in common. Most of his characters were good-hearted and naive. The actor often appeared comical and awkward in them. They were often rather embarrassing situations that brought a smile to the audience’s face. Let us recall, for example, the role of Aleš Brabec in the film Just let him be afraid. He was also a simple young man in the movie Jáchym, throw him into the machine!. His clumsiness also brought him into comical situations in the movie I’ll take it, boss…!, where he played the character of Laďa Pitras.
Dramatic roles also suited Sobota
He became famous as a film and theater comedian. But his last role was completely different. The circle seems to have closed. Not only was the role in Okresní přebor his last television appearance, Václav Orel was also one of his few negative and sleazy roles. Even Luděk Sobota proved that these roles suit him and he can play them with bravura. The teachers at DAMU were right.
His wife Adriana supports him in his old age
Luděk Sobota celebrated his 82nd birthday this year. He retired from public life a few years ago. Whether he is currently living a happy life, only he and his loved ones know. He forms a stable couple with his longtime wife Adriana. They live with her in one of Prague’s First Republic villas. However, there is often speculation about the actor’s health.
Although nothing has been officially confirmed, there is talk of his possible depression and deteriorating health. But the actor himself never confirmed anything like that. One of the last events where he was captured by photographers was the funeral of actor Jiří Krampol. Here too, Saturday did not seem completely fit. As he himself has revealed more than once, laziness currently prevails in his life. There is also speculation about gloomy moods and depression. Fortunately, his beloved wife supports him and tries to make him lead an active life. Even so, the news about his condition in recent months causes consternation and fear for the actor’s health. These have now been refuted by the wife, who speaks positively about their current life.
Resources: Blesk.cz, Stream.cz, Csfd.cz
